THE future of Stockport Symphony Orchestra was given a glimmer of hope as councillors have decided to review the use of the town hall ballroom.

THE future of Stockport Symphony Orchestra was given a glimmer of hope as councillors have decided to review the use of the town hall ballroom.

The local arts group, described by many people as one of Stockport's greatest assets, is facing financial ruin after Liberal Democrats voted last year to charge it the 'going rate' for its performances and rehearsals in the town hall ballroom - a potential sum of £8,000 a year.

However, at a full council meeting, Conservative councillor Tony Johnson proposed that the charges should be reviewed 'in recognition of the considerable importance of Stockport Symphony Orchestra to the community'.

Coun Johnson slammed the LibDems' suggestion that the orchestra use the town's Plaza entertainment centre as 'ignorant' because the venue would be too small.

"There is no viable alternative location apart from the town hall ballroom," he said.

Liberal Democrat councillor Ingrid Shaw proposed an addition to the motion which included a review to be completed by the end of June 2002.

The review includes an examination of proposals to attract external funding for the orchestra, a complete audit of the orchestra accounts for the last three years and proposals for the orchestra's increased community involvement with young people and disadvantaged groups.